Carrollton receives storm ready city designation

by PegNews wire

CARROLLTON — According to the National Weather Service, Americans live in the most severe weather-prone country on earth. Each year, Americans cope with an average of 10,000 thunderstorms, 5,000 floods, 1,000 tornadoes, and an average of two deadly hurricanes making landfall. This is on top of winter storms, intense summer heat, high winds and other deadly weather impacts. StormReady communities are better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of severe weather through better planning, education, and awareness. No community is storm proof, but StormReady can help save lives.

The City of Carrollton recently became one of only 542 cities nationwide to have received the StormReady distinction from the National Weather Service. Bill Bunting, meteorologist in charge of the National Weather Service Fort Worth Forecasting Office, presented the award to the city during the July 15th city council meeting.

In order to become certified as a storm-ready community, Carrollton had to ensure the following were established and in place:

• Establish a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center;

• Have more than one method of receiving severe weather forecasts and warnings and alerting the public;

• Create a system that monitors local weather conditions;

• Promote the significance of public readiness through community seminars;

• Develop a formal hazardous weather plan, which includes training severe weather spotters and holding exercises.

Carrollton also has a strong relationship with the local ARES/RACES radio group who serve as severe weather spotters and emergency volunteers.

Source: city of Carrollton